A new Maine law will give physical therapists and other health care providers additional protections when they enter into contracts for preferred provider arrangements. Public Law 399 (LD 1466) will require health plans to disclose certain information and materials to providers at the time a preferred provider arrangement contract is offered.

The legislation will prohibit contracts that allow health insurance companies to make changes to key terms, such as reimbursement rates, without the provider's written consent after the agreement has been entered.

LD 1466 was sponsored by Maine Senate Majority Leader Seth Goodall (D-19) and supported by the Maine Chapter of APTA. The new provisions will take effect October 8.